Greek Spinach Rice: Spanakorizo Recipe

Greek Spinach Rice, or Spanakorizo, is a tasty dish packed with an almost ridiculous amount of spinach-and that's exactly what makes it so good. This simple, comforting classic from the Greek islands is proof that humble ingredients can create something truly satisfying. Whether served as a main or a side, this Spanakorizo recipe brings big flavour with minimal effort.

Jump to:

• What is Spanakorizo?
• Ingredients and Substitutes
• Step-By-Step Method
• What Rice Is Best For This Spanakorizo Recipe? 
• Storage and Leftovers
• What To Serve Greek Spinach Rice With?
• Other Rice Dishes To Try Next Time
• Greek Spinach Recipe

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What is Spanakorizo?

Spanakorizo is a traditional Greek recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something special. This comforting rice dish is packed with a lot of spinach, simmered until tender, and finished with plenty of lemon juice for that signature fresh kick. It's a classic vegetarian dish, often served as a main or a side. Kind of similar to rice pilaf, if you ask me. 

I first saw it being made on holiday in Greece, on the island of Zakynthos. The version I had was studded with juicy tomatoes and finished with crumbles of beautiful Greek feta-a perfect example of how this traditional dish can be adapted while still keeping its authentic flavours.

We also love a variation on Greek salad - Cucumber, Tomato and Feta Salad. Here are some more great examples of Greek food:

Ingredients and Substitutes

Here are all the simple ingredients you'll need to make this Greek Spinach Rice dish:

• long-grain rice: or medium grain rice. White rice like basmati will work great.
• extra virgin olive oil. 
• brown onion: may be replaced with shallots of green onions (a.k.a. spring onions).  
• baby spinach: may be replaced with other leafy greens. We recently tried it with chopped swiss chard from the garden and it worked great! If you're using large leaves or mature greens, make sure to chop them roughly first. 
• lemon. 
• garlic. 
• tomato puree: also known as concentrated tomato paste. 
• salt and black pepper. 
• water: may be replaced with vegetable stock or chicken broth. 
• dried mint and dried dill: or use fresh dill and mint, if you have some handy, but make sure to add the fresh herbs at the end, just before serving. 
• optional extras: tomatoes and feta cheese. 

Step-By-Step Method

1. Rinse the rice under plenty of cold water to remove the starchy outer layer.

2. Heat a large frying pan with the olive oil on a low-medium heat. Add the onions and saute for 5 minutes. Then add the garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, tomato paste and season with salt and pepper. Stir for a few seconds to combine.

3. Finally add the fresh baby spinach and mix well to coat. Continue cooking just long enough for the fresh spinach leaves to wilt.

4. Add the rice to the pan alongside the mint and dill, and stir to combine.

5. Pour 400ml (about 1⅔ cups) of hot water (or low-sodium vegetable broth) over the rice mixture and bring it to a boil. As soon as it's boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the rice to cook undisturbed for 20-25 minutes over low heat. All liquid should be absorbed and the rice should be soft. If your rice is still too al dente, pour a little bit more hot water, cover and cook for a few more minutes. 

6. Once cooked, allow the rice to sit for 5 minutes, before fluffing it up with a fork.

7. If you wish, stir in some chopped tomato, fresh herbs or top the rice with crumbled feta. Serve with a lemon wedge on the side. 

What Rice Is Best For This Spanakorizo Recipe? 

The kind of rice you choose will affect the texture of your Greek Spinach Rice. Long grain rice (like basmati rice) keeps things light and fluffy, while medium-grain rice adds a bit more bite.

If you prefer a creamy texture, you can even try arborio rice (or other risotto rice), but make sure to rinse and even soak the rice to remove lots of starch.

Brown rice and wild rice, unfortunately, take too long to cook in this traditional Greek rice recipe. 

Storage and Leftovers

This Greek Spinach Rice is a great way to meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Let it cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container. You can eat it cold, almost like a spinach and rice salad, or reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water to bring back some moisture. Alternatively, heat it in a microwave. 

What To Serve Greek Spinach Rice With?

This Greek Spinach Rice is so versatile-it can be the star of the show or play a supporting role. As a main dish, it's hearty enough on its own, especially with a crumble of feta on top. 

But if you're after a nutritious meal with more protein, serve it as an easy side dish alongside Greek meatballs, Chicken Limone, or Lemon Baked Salmon, or Salmon Parcels with Leeks and Carrots. However you plate it up, this easy dish is always a winner!

Other Rice Dishes To Try Next Time

If you loved this classic Greek Spinach Rice recipe, why not explore more delicious recipes featuring rice? These simple dishes (main course and side dishes) are perfect for the whole family and just as comforting as they are easy to make!